First commemorative tree planted in Wiltshire

The first of more than 10,000 trees has been planted in Tidworth. The trees are to be planted as a lasting tribute to remember the servicemen from Wiltshire who gave their lives in WW1.

Baroness Scott along with Major General Nick Borton cuts the tape to officially launch the World War one Arboretum

Tedworth House Tattoo Ground will have a new arboretum of 105 trees, one of more than 100 community groups supported by Wiltshire Council who will be planting thousands of trees, one for every Wiltshire soldier who died in the conflict, in November.

Baroness Scott of Bybrook, OBE, Leader of Wiltshire Council said: “In 2014 we marked the centenary of the start of World War One with a wall of 10,000 poppies, one for every member of the Armed Forces from Wiltshire who died during the conflict.

“The beech tree I planted at Tedworth House is the first of more than 10,000 to be planted in Wiltshire as a lasting tribute to those men and women from the county who sacrificed their lives.”

Commander Tidworth, Netheravon and Bulford Garrison, Lt Col Jamie Balls MBE said: “This arboretum will continue to grow and I hope many more will come here to read about the different groups of individuals who gave so much in World War One to reflect and to admire the beauty of the trees.”